What India buys from France
India's main imports from France: aircraft (US$2.75 bn), machinery (US$1.29 bn), electrical equipment (US$0.71 bn), optical/medical instruments (US$0.36 bn), plastics (US$0.27 bn) (calendar 2025, UN Comtrade).
Indian import requirements
| Requirement | Authority | Document |
|---|---|---|
| Importer-Exporter Code; GST; ICEGATE | DGFT / GSTN / CBIC | IEC; GSTIN; ICEGATE DSC registration |
| Import policy classification | DGFT | ITC(HS) policy: Free/Restricted/Prohibited/STE; import authorisation if Restricted |
| Customs declaration & duty | CBIC / ICEGATE | Bill of Entry; BCD + AIDC + SWS(10% of BCD) + IGST |
| Mandatory BIS certification | BIS / DPIIT & line ministries | BIS licence (ISI, FMCS for foreign plants) or CRS registration |
| Cosmetic import registration | CDSCO | COS-1 application / COS-2 registration |
| Trusted trader status | CBIC | AEO-T1/T2/T3/LO |
Policy watch
As of 2026-11: cosmetic ingredients are not themselves registered with CDSCO (registration under the Cosmetics Rules 2020 applies to finished imported cosmetics), but they must be permitted for cosmetic use under Indian standards (BIS IS 4707 lists colourants and prohibited/restricted substances — ASSUMPTION, confirm). Some ingredients are covered by chemical QCOs or MSIHC rules; check per CAS number. India bans animal testing of cosmetics. Sources: https://cdscoonline.gov.in; https://www.bis.gov.in/product-certification/products-under-compulsory-certification/; research/06-compliance-logistics.md.
Frequently asked questions
How do I import cosmetic ingredients from France to India?
Place the order with a verified France supplier, ship to an Indian port or ICD, and clear customs with an IEC and Importer-Exporter Code; GST; ICEGATE and Import policy classification. We manage supplier checks, shipment and clearance for you.
Is there a trade agreement between India and France?
EU competence — India–EU FTA concluded 27 Jan 2026, not yet in force [S7][S8]; India graduated from EU GSP for 2026–2028 (Reg. (EU) 2025/1909) so MFN duties apply until the FTA enters into force (expected 2027) [06 §C.4]
Where in France is cosmetic ingredients made?
Main hubs: Lyon, Paris, Grasse. Specialty actives, botanical extracts and emollients from established cosmetic-ingredient producers.
What HS code is used for importing cosmetic ingredients into India?
Usually HS 3824; confirm the 8-digit Indian tariff line and current duty on CBIC/ICEGATE with your customs broker.
Related
Source cosmetic ingredients from France
Specification, volume and delivery city in India.